Clubs / Lounges October 2011

Chi Dining Lounge (516) 385-3795, Westburychidininglounge.com Chi is a slick hotspot in the heart of Nassau County. Known for their Wild Wednesdays, their specialty is a wide range of tasty signature, dessert-like drinks such as The Cupcake, Triple Chocolate Truffle or Cookie Monster. The wine list is extensive and contains vintages from all over the world by the bottle or glass. The music gets louder after the dinner crowd dwindles and the DJ starts spinning.

SUFFOLK

Bistro 72 (631) 369-3325, Riverheadindigoeastend.com Summer is officially over, which makes it a great time to head out east. Less traffic, no lines and an overall cooled down environment sounds like a perfect time. Skip exit 70 toward the Hamptons and keep trucking on the LIE to Riverhead. You will find Bistro 72 at Hotel Indigo East End. Located in this new hotel is an enjoyable, distinctive dining experience paired with regional wines. Entertainment is eclectic, with nights of comedy, jazz or jam sessions. Best part: You can book a room and spend the night.

NYC PICK

DUO Restaurant & Lounge (212) 686-7272, Manhattanduonewyork.com The city’s cooled down and the crowds are back after their summer escape. Same ol’ same old? I don’t think so. DUO Restaurant & Lounge on Madison Ave. might just change your routine. High ceilings make for a dramatic entrance and the deep colored lighting brings out a Vegas vibe. Unusual architecture adds to the overall classy décor of this venue. A sultry velvet wall drapes one side of the lounge overlooking the circular bar and scattered candlelit tables.

DUO caters to an upscale, trendy clientele with its excellent atmosphere, service and cuisine. Back-lit menus make reading easy and, ah-ha ladies, a special seat for your purse! Large murals of women and images of butterflies are two major interior motifs as well.

An array of exceptional drinks, including a watermelon cocktail, starts the night off right. The staff is extremely mindful of your specific taste requirements and will suggest items to help make the decision easy when choosing from the scrumptious options. The cuisine truly cinches the deal. The carpaccio is a skillfully executed classic dish with a wide variety of toppings and the presentation of the “duo” ahi tuna makes it hard to wait to dig in. The fish entrées shine along with the truffle mashed potatoes.

Exotic music beats from the lounge while you munch on one of their fabulous dessert options alongside another drink or variety of teas presented in a big fishbowl. After the meal, hanging out in the bar area might just snag you a few tips from hip trendsetters.